Games are more than a welcome diversion for parents searching for some much-needed peace and quiet, according to Michele Bent.
“They’re really great socialising tools for children,” the owner of Mind Games Geelong said.
Each time children play they learn important life lessons like losing graciously and taking their turn.
“Not everything in life goes how you want it to,” Michele says.
While the store stocks games for people “aged one to 99”, Michelle has some special titles to expand little minds.
“We’re very conscious of age-appropriate puzzles,” she says.
Among her bestselling titles is the award-winning Rat-a-Tat Cat, a memory-based card game which can introduce children aged six and older to strategy.
“We sell a lot of it,” she says.
“Mostly parents recommend it to each other.”
International IQ society Mensa has recommended the game for its educational value.
“And they don’t just give out awards to anyone,” Michelle says.
“Most importantly, it’s fun,” she adds.
“I would happily sit down and play it with my granddaughter – when she’s a couple of years older.”
Five-in-one game Spot It or Dobble is another favourite with children, Michele says.
“And it comes in a tin which is great for storage.”
Michele knows games can provide a much-needed distraction for children, having brought up four of own.
“New mothers who are nursing but have another little one bring out these games,” she says.
She and husband Kevin, an avid chess player, got into the business 16 years ago.
They’ve driven to the city from Anglesea for work nearly every morning since.
“There’s just about something for everyone in this shop,” Michele says.
“People come in looking for certain games and it opens their eyes to everything else we have.”
